As we journey through Lent, our focus on reconciliation deepens, urging us to confront difficult truths and embrace healing. Last Sunday's Dean's Forum, featuring Joe O'Shields and Paul Arrington, co-chairs of the Diocesan Anti-Racism Commission, shed light on the profound importance of acknowledging racial injustice as a prerequisite for reconciliation.

A key takeaway from their insightful discussion was the notion that racial reconciliation cannot occur without first acknowledging the pain, understanding the wounds inflicted, and recognizing the injustices perpetrated. They referred to the wisdom of Dr. Catherine Meeks, who emphasizes that racial healing must precede racial reconciliation—a sentiment echoed in a BackStory interview with Dean Kate and Dr. Meeks, available for listening here.

Joe and Paul also shared a compelling video on The Episcopal Church website featuring Bishop Curry explaining the Sacred Ground initiative. Watch it here. This transformative program provides a structured framework for exploring issues of race, racism, and reconciliation within a supportive community context. Those interested in initiating a Sacred Ground study are encouraged to contact the Church Office; new groups will be forming soon.

As our Lenten journey unfolds, our exploration of reconciliation expands to encompass diverse avenues of healing and transformation. This Sunday, the Reverend Dr. Linda Privitera will lead a thought-provoking discussion on "Art as a Path to Reconciliation and Healing." Through the lens of torn paper collages, participants will contemplate the idea that while some things may seem irreconcilable, they can also be deconstructed and reimagined. In the torn pieces, we may discover new perspectives and possibilities for healing.

Next Sunday, March 17, Ellen and Phil Petersen will share practical insights on green living. Offering numerous tips and techniques for maintaining an environmentally-conscious home, they will emphasize the use of green products to minimize ecological impact. Excitingly, these eco-friendly products will be available at the St. John's Cathedral Bookstore's new "Green Spirits" corner, offering an accessible means for our community to embrace sustainable living practices.

As we continue our Lenten journey, may these experiences deepen our understanding of reconciliation and inspire us to live into its principles. Join us as we embrace the transformative power of reconciliation.

~Nancy Purcell, Director of Marketing and Communications

Tim Tuller, Canon for Music, gives notes on the service music for the 

Fourth Sunday in Lent, March 10, 2024.

Click image to view and/or download a PDF.

To prepare for the conversation, St. John's Cathedral Bookstore suggests two titles that provide excellent background information:

Purchase online here

Purchase online here

Holy Week and Easter Services Schedule

Adult Confirmation and Inquirers Retreat

Saturday, March 23

9 a.m. to Noon

Those who are interested in being confirmed and who are seeking to learn more about The Episcopal Church are invited to join Dean Kate for a half-day retreat. 

Bishop Stokes will confirm, receive, and reaffirm candidates after the 10:30 a.m. service on Palm Sunday, March 24. For more information, please contact Megan Cochran.

Palanca Prayers Requested for St. John's Cursillo Pilgrims

Marc Willis is attending the Cursillo Men's Weekend February 29 through March 3.

Felicia Bullock is attending the Women's Weekend

March 7 through March 10

The word “palanca” is Spanish for a lever or crowbar. In the sense in which it is used in Cursillo, it means Eucharist, Rosaries, fasting, prayers, and personal sacrifices which are offered on behalf of the Cursillistas or Pilgrims. You are invited to write "palanca" prayers for Marc and Felecia and drop your prayer in the Palanca box that is under the table in the hallway across from the elevator. These prayers can express gratitude for the gifts of service, prayer, concern, and care shown by the recipient, reassure them of a power greater than themselves, or offer insights, words of wisdom, encouragement, and guidance. Place your prayers for each Marc and Felicia in the box prior to and during their retreat weekend. Thank you!

Save the date for our Spring Festival April 20 If you are interested in being a vendor or know someone who might be, click the image below to fill out the vendor registration form.

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